Budget FAQs

Q: Why is the Budget Created?
A: The budget helps to develop and communicate the city's service, policy, operations, and financial plans. The budget concentrates on the goals set by the City Council and furthers the vision of Longview as a Premier City. In addition, it reflects the City’s mission to deliver the highest quality municipal services to our citizens and customers, consistent with our community values.

Q: What responsibilities does the Budget Division have?
A: The Budget division develops, coordinates, and monitors the City of Longview's financial operations. Other functions include monitoring revenue, expenditure and performance trends and special projects assigned by city management.

Q: What is the Fiscal Year for the city?
A: The City’s fiscal year is October 1 to September 30.

Q: When does the Budget Process Begin?
A: The development of the budget begins in the fall of each year. At that time, Council establishes policy priorities for the upcoming budget, reflecting policy and program concerns of the community at large. In the spring, the City Manager's proposed budget is sent to the City Finance Committee for review.

Q: When is the Budget Adopted?
A: The City Council discusses the proposed budget during public hearings and adopts a new budget in August. Check the meeting schedules page to attend any of the public budget meetings or our City Council calendar attachment.

Q: Why is the adopted budget not posted on the website?
A: The GFOA allows us 90 days to prepare the adopted budget for the general public review. This allows our staff to have the time to prepare and format of the adopted budget.